What is a lavender marriage?

A lavender marriage is a marriage of convenience between two people of the same sex, entered into to conceal their homosexuality. The term "lavender" refers to the euphemism for gay men prevalent in the 20th century. These marriages weren't necessarily based on love or intimacy, but rather on social pressures and the need to maintain a respectable public image. The reasons for entering into a lavender marriage varied, but often included:

• Avoiding social stigma and discrimination: Homosexuality was widely condemned and illegal in many places throughout much of the 20th century. A lavender marriage allowed individuals to avoid persecution, ostracism, and potential loss of jobs or social standing.
• Family pressure: Families often pressured same-sex individuals to marry someone of the opposite sex to conform to societal expectations and maintain family honor or reputation.
• Inheritance and property rights: Marriage provided legal access to inheritance and other property rights that were not available to unmarried couples, particularly in the absence of legal recognition of same-sex relationships.
• Career advancement: In some professions, being openly gay could hinder career progression. A lavender marriage could help maintain a professional image.

It's crucial to understand that these marriages could involve varying degrees of emotional intimacy. Some couples might develop a genuine bond, while others maintain a strictly platonic relationship. The emotional toll of living a life of secrecy and deception could, however, be significant for all involved. The impact of these marriages varied greatly depending on the individuals involved and their circumstances.

Lavender marriages highlight the historical oppression faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and the lengths to which they had to go to navigate a hostile and discriminatory society. While such marriages are less common now due to increased social acceptance and legal recognition of same-sex relationships in many parts of the world, understanding their history offers valuable insight into the struggles of the LGBTQ+ community.